Red river delta steamed rice cake (bánh tẻ) – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Vietnam Region / Locale: Red river delta Servings: 4 servings
Vietnam Region / Locale: Red river delta Servings: 4 servingsThe Red River Delta Steamed Rice Cake, known as bánh tẻ, is a traditional Vietnamese delicacy with deep roots in the agriculture-rich regions of northern Vietnam. This savory treat is a testament to Vietnamese culinary artistry, combining rice flour, pork, and wood ear mushrooms to create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Traditionally wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to perfection, bánh tẻ is a beloved snack or breakfast dish that captures the essence of Vietnamese home cooking.
Ingredients
- rice flour – 2 cups / 240 g
- tapioca starch – 1 cup / 120 g
- chicken broth – 3 cups / 720 ml
- pork loin – 300 g, finely diced
- wood ear mushrooms – 50 g, soaked and sliced
- shallots – 3, finely chopped
- fish sauce – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- banana leaves – 8 large pieces, cleaned
- cooking oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- salt – 1/2 tsp / 3 g
- pepper – 1/2 tsp / 2 g
Instructions
- Mix rice flour and tapioca starch in a bowl. Gradually add chicken broth, stirring constantly until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add shallots and cook until fragrant.
- Add pork and wood ear mushrooms to the pan. Season with fish sauce and cook until the pork is browned and cooked through.
- In a large saucepan, cook the rice flour mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Lay out banana leaves and place a spoonful of thickened rice flour mixture in the center. Add a spoonful of pork mixture on top. Wrap the banana leaf tightly and fold the ends under.
- Place the wraps in a steamer and steam for about 30 minutes or until firm. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Substitutions
- chicken broth -> vegetable broth
- pork loin -> chicken breast
- wood ear mushrooms -> shiitake mushrooms
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Enhance the flavor by marinating the pork with garlic and soy sauce before cooking.
- Add ground peppercorns for more depth of flavor.
- Include a dipping sauce with lime juice, fish sauce, chili, and sugar for added zest.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
